Glasgow Rangers raised eyebrows in January when they signed Andreas Skov Olsen on loan from Wolfsburg with an option to buy in the summer.
The Danish international arrived with a strong reputation following productive spells at Club Brugge, where he regularly contributed goals and assists. However, his inconsistent Bundesliga form raised early concerns.
While Skov Olsen remains a talented attacker, Rangers may already have found a more exciting long-term option in young striker Ryan Naderi.
Andreas Skov Olsen’s Mixed Start at Rangers
Skov Olsen joined Rangers with expectations of becoming a key attacking figure during the title race.
So far, the 26-year-old has scored once in four appearances, finding the net against Kilmarnock. Despite his technical ability, he has yet to register an assist in the Scottish Premiership.
With an expected fee of £8.7 million, Rangers will need consistent output in goals and creativity to justify a permanent move.
Manager Danny Rohl expects immediate impact from experienced signings, and Skov Olsen must raise his level in the coming months.
Why Rangers Need More From Skov Olsen
As a winger-forward in his prime years, Skov Olsen is expected to influence matches regularly.
His current numbers including a modest expected assists (xA) figure indicate that he is not yet providing enough service for teammates.
If he fails to improve, Rangers may reconsider activating the purchase option in the summer.
Ryan Naderi’s Impressive Arrival at Ibrox
Rangers appear to have secured a major asset in Ryan Naderi following his £4.7 million move from Hansa Rostock.
The 22-year-old striker impressed in Germany’s 3. Liga, scoring eight goals and providing four assists before his transfer.
Despite concerns about adaptation, Naderi has settled quickly into Scottish football.
On his full debut against Queen’s Park in the Scottish Cup, he scored twice, showcasing his aerial ability and intelligent movement.
Physical Presence and Jelavic Comparisons
Former Rangers striker Nikica Jelavic remains one of the club’s most effective forwards of the modern era, scoring 36 goals in 55 matches before his move to Everton.
Naderi shares several traits with the Croatian international:
- Strong aerial ability
- Physical dominance
- Sharp penalty-box movement
- Hold-up play
Against Kilmarnock, he demonstrated impressive duel success and ball retention, proving he can compete with Premiership defenders.
These qualities make him a natural focal point in attack.
Creativity and All-Round Development
While primarily known as a goalscorer, Naderi has also shown creative potential.
His four assists in Germany suggest he can link play and support wide attackers an important skill in Danny Rohl’s system.
As he gains experience in Scottish football, his decision-making and positional awareness are expected to improve further.
At just 22, he remains far from his peak.
Why Naderi Is More Exciting Than Skov Olsen
Several factors make Naderi a more promising long-term investment than Skov Olsen:
First, he is four years younger and has more room for development.
Second, he arrived on a permanent deal, offering stability and continuity.
Third, his early performances suggest he can become a consistent goal threat.
In contrast, Skov Olsen’s future depends on short-term form and financial commitment.
From a sporting perspective, Naderi represents better long-term value.
Rangers Have Found Their New Number Nine
Ryan Naderi’s rapid adaptation to life at Ibrox has given Rangers supporters genuine optimism.
With his physical presence, finishing ability, and work rate, he has the potential to follow in Nikica Jelavic’s footsteps.
While Andreas Skov Olsen remains an important part of the squad, Naderi’s emergence could shape Rangers’ attacking future.
If he continues developing at this pace, Rangers may have found their next star striker.
Thiago Nuno is a football editor and analyst covering European leagues, match statistics, and transfer market trends.
